Oxidation and diffusion
Which chemical reaction occurs in the dry thermal oxidation of silicon?
- ASi + O2 → SiO2
- BSi + N2 → SiN
- CSiO2 + H2 → Si + H2O
Show answer and explanation
Answer: A. Si + O2 → SiO2
In dry oxidation, silicon reacts with oxygen at high temperature to form silicon dioxide (Si + O2 → SiO2). Wet oxidation uses steam, with the reaction Si + 2H2O → SiO2 + 2H2.
- A. Correct. Silicon and oxygen form SiO2.
- B. Reaction with nitrogen does not form an oxide.
- C. This is the reverse reaction that reduces the oxide, not oxidation.